Editor’s Note: A Week of Civic Duty, Community Safety, and New Beginnings
Good morning to our readers across the Red River North, Eastline, and Boreal Boundary. As we move into the middle of April 2026, our region is characterized by a high degree of civic engagement and a renewed focus on public health and safety. From the resolution of long-standing labour disputes to the opening of public budget books, this week’s report highlights a community that is actively participating in the heavy lifting of local governance while keeping a watchful eye on one another.
In the Red River North, the week is defined by a call for collective vigilance and transparent planning. Public health has taken center stage following a high-priority measles exposure alert at East Selkirk Middle School, a sobering reminder for families to ensure their records are up to date. While health officials manage the exposure, municipal leaders are inviting residents to the table. In St. Andrews, the upcoming second Zoning By-law Open House offers a critical opportunity for property owners to shape the rules that will govern land use for years to come. Meanwhile, West St. Paul is looking toward the future of its emergency response with a new fire sustainability study, and St. Clements is opening its doors for a pre-budget "town hall" style consultation. In the North, the message is clear: the best way to protect our future is to participate in it.
The Eastline region is breathing a sigh of relief this week as the RM of Taché public works strike has officially concluded. With a new agreement ratified, crews are back on the roads, ensuring our spring transition remains navigable and safe. However, the week has not been without its tensions. Significant RCMP activity in Steinbach and a coordinated act of youth vandalism in St. Adolphe have reminded us of the importance of community policing and proactive enforcement. Even amidst these challenges, the spirit of service remains strong; the Steinbach Fire Department is opening its doors this Saturday for a recruitment open house, looking for the next generation of residents willing to step up when the alarm sounds.
In the Boreal Boundary, we are seeing a heartening example of community resilience and practical progress. The successful relocation of Rural Animal Management Services (RAMS) into the former Lucky Dollar in Anola is a win for the region, turning a vacant storefront into a modern shelter through the power of local volunteers. As we celebrate these "new neighbors," our municipal offices are shifting into the "fine print" of spring. In Reynolds, the 2026 Financial Plan is ready for its public debut, while Whitemouth is investing in the practical tools of commerce with new weighing infrastructure at the WRNW waste facility. From the heritage-focused meetings in Lac du Bonnet to the shoreline protection strategies being drafted in Victoria Beach, the Boreal region is proving that it can balance the preservation of its past with the logistical needs of its future.
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Wishing you a safe, healthy, and informed week ahead!
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Measles Exposure Alert: East Selkirk Middle School:
Public health officials have issued a high-priority exposure notice for East Selkirk Middle School (1140 Strathcona Rd). The exposure occurred on April 9, 2026, between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Unimmunized individuals who were present are urged to contact health providers for preventative treatment.
Source: Province of Manitoba
St. Andrews Zoning By-law Open House: April 29:
If you missed the first session, the RM of St. Andrews is hosting its second public open house on Wednesday, April 29, regarding the comprehensive 2026 Zoning By-law update. This document will replace By-law 4066 and impact property rights across the RM.
Source: RM of St. Andrews
Fire Services Sustainability Study Launched:
The RM has initiated an operational study of its Fire Services to determine long-term staffing and equipment needs as the population nears a significant milestone.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Pre-Budget Consultation Open House (April 27):
The Council has scheduled an informal Open House on Monday, April 27, at 7:00 PM at the Municipal Office (1043 Kittson Road). This is a chance for residents to discuss the 2026 fiscal year and current projects with staff and council.
Source: RM of St. Clements
2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing (May 5):
The RM intends to present its 2026 Financial Plan at a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 5, at 7:00 PM. The session will be live-streamed with interactive chat. Written submissions are required by May 1.
Source: RM of St. Clements
Summer Camp Registration: Clandeboye & St. Andrews Community Clubs: Registration is now officially open for summer camps at both the Clandeboye and St. Andrews Community Clubs for ages 5–11. These camps feature trained youth leaders, field trips, and a variety of indoor/outdoor sports and arts activities. Source: RM of St. Andrews
Selkirk Commences Independent Development Plan Project:
Following its withdrawal from the Red River Planning District, the City of Selkirk has officially launched the creation of its own independent Development Plan. This initiative will replace the former regional planning model with a "made-in-Selkirk" strategy for land use and housing.
Source: City of Selkirk
Summer Camp 2026 Registration Now Open:
Registration for the ESP Summer Camp (Ages 5-12) officially opened on April 13. The camp runs for nine weeks starting July 6 at the ESP Arena Banquet Hall. Discounts are available for multiple children registered in the same week. New for 2026, the camp has added additional weeks in early July and late August.
Source: RM of East St. Paul
East St. Paul Large Item Pick-up Scheduled (April 20-24):
The RM has confirmed that the annual Large Item Pick-up will take place next week. Residents can place two items at the curb on their regular garbage day. Source: RM of East St. Paul
Notice of Candidate Registration for October Election:
Prospective candidates for the October 28, 2026, general municipal election can begin registering on May 1 (for Head of Council) or June 30 (for Councillor). Registration must be filed before any campaign fundraising can begin.
Source: RM of St. Clements
Public Notice: Temporary Green Cart Collection Changes:
Due to logistical updates, West St. Paul has issued a temporary notice regarding green cart collection and replacement. Residents should check the April schedule on the municipal site.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
St. Andrews Community Club Garage Sale: April 18:
The St. Andrews Community Club will host a community-wide garage sale this Saturday, April 18. It is a major local event for residents to sell and browse items while supporting the community hall.
Source: RM of St. Andrews
Two Arrested on Weapon Charges:
On Monday, April 13, Steinbach RCMP arrested two individuals following a weapons-related call in the city. The investigation is ongoing, and charges are being finalized.
Source: SteinbachOnline
RCMP Arrest Four Youths Following St. Adolphe Disturbance:
St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to an unusual disturbance on April 12 involving approximately 30 individuals in balaclavas throwing rocks at vehicles in St. Adolphe. Four youths were apprehended and charged with mischief, with police indicating the incident appears to have been a coordinated act of vandalism. Source: SteinbachOnline
Steinbach Street Racing Fines:
Steinbach RCMP issued several high-value tickets this week following two separate racing incidents. On April 8, two 18-year-olds from La Broquerie were caught racing on Life Sciences Parkway, and on April 11, two 20-year-olds (one from Ste. Anne, one from Dufresne) were fined $672 each for racing on Main Street.
Source: Manitoba RCMP
RM of Taché Strike Officially Ends with New Agreement:
The strike involving RM of Taché public works employees, which began in late February, has officially concluded. Operating Engineers of Manitoba Local 987 announced on April 10 that members have ratified a new collective agreement, allowing maintenance crews to return to their regular duties across the municipality immediately.
Firefighter Hiring Open House: April 18:
The Steinbach Fire Department is actively recruiting. They are hosting an open house this Saturday, April 18, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Fire Hall. Residents interested in serving as paid on-call firefighters are encouraged to attend. Source: City of Steinbach
Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck Confirms Re-election Bid:
Mayor Myron Dyck has officially announced his intention to seek a sixth term in the upcoming October 2026 municipal election. Having served on council since 2004, Dyck cited several ongoing infrastructure projects and community development goals as his primary reasons for running again.
Source: Niverville Citizen
Public Hearing for Variance and Conditional Use: April 21:
Steinbach City Council has scheduled two public hearings for April 21 at 7:35 PM to discuss local development applications. One hearing involves a variance for 135 Harmony Lane, while the other considers a conditional use permit for 840 Main Street, allowing residents to provide input on these specific property changes.
Source: City of Steinbach
Niverville Proposes Road Closures to Facilitate "Elevator Lot" Development: Town Council has introduced Bylaw 889-26, which proposes the official closure of a public lane and a portion of 1st Street North that extended across Prairie Trail to the railway tracks. These parcels are currently unused and undeveloped, and the closure will allow the town to consolidate the land for future sale and development on the former grain elevator site without impacting local traffic. Source: SteinbachOnline
Council Approves Land Sale for New Île-des-Chênes Grocery Store:
In a unanimous vote on April 8, Ritchot Council approved the sale of a small parcel of municipal land along Old 59 Highway for $42,400. This land is intended to assist Clearview Co-op in establishing a much-needed grocery store for the community, a project identified as a top priority for local residents.
Source: Niverville Citizen
2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing: April 28:
De Salaberry council will present the municipal Financial Plan for the current fiscal year on Tuesday, April 28, at 7:00 PM. Residents are invited to attend the hearing at the municipal office to review the budget, ask questions about tax rates, and hear about upcoming capital projects.
Source: RM of De Salaberry
Crime Prevention Meeting Scheduled for April 29:
The RM of Emerson-Franklin is hosting a regional Crime Prevention Meeting on April 29 to discuss recent safety concerns and community watch initiatives. Local officials and RCMP representatives will be on hand to provide tips on protecting property and improving neighbor connectivity.
Source: Emerson Franklin
Niverville Councillor Bill Fast Announces Retirement from Politics:
After serving the community for several terms, Councillor Bill Fast has confirmed he will not be seeking re-election this fall. His decision ensures there will be at least one vacant seat on the Niverville council, sparking early interest among potential local candidates.
Source: Niverville Citizen
Ritchot Explores Location and Scale for New Fire Hall:
Council has begun preliminary discussions regarding the construction of a new fire hall and is currently working with TC Energy to secure a suitable site. Administration is hiring consultants to determine whether the facility should be built to a scale that eventually supports three-story ladder trucks and potential full-time living quarters for staff.
Source: Niverville Citizen
Council Finalizes Heritage Aggregate Reserve By-law (25-15):
Springfield Council has completed the final readings for By-law 25-15, which officially establishes the new Heritage Aggregate Reserve. This move replaces older regulations (By-law 17-11) and provides a more modern framework for managing the RM’s gravel and aggregate resources.
Source: RM of Springfield
Private Well Water Testing Days: May 28:
The Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District (SRRWD) is partnering with local RMs, including De Salaberry and Piney, for private well water testing days. Residents can pick up testing kits at their municipal offices now, with sample drop-off scheduled for the morning of May 28.
Source: SRRWD / RM of De Salaberry
Special Meeting of Council: Waste and Recycling By-laws (April 21):
A special council meeting has been called for next Tuesday, April 21, at 5:00 PM specifically to address new waste collection and recycling by-laws. The meeting will include a public hearing where residents can express their views on the proposed special services by-laws for garbage pickup.
Source: RM of De Salaberry
PC Party Nomination Meeting for Steinbach Riding: April 30:
The Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba has officially set Thursday, April 30, for the Steinbach nomination meeting at the Mitchell Community Centre. Current City Councillor Michael Zwaagstra is currently the sole candidate for the seat being vacated by longtime MLA Kelvin Goertzen, though the party has set a final candidate application deadline of April 19.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Contested PC Nomination Meeting for Springfield-Ritchot Riding: April 28: A nomination meeting for the Springfield-Ritchot constituency is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, at Grande Pointe Park, starting with registration at 5:30 PM. This is expected to be the first contested nomination of the current election cycle, with multiple energetic contestants already active in the region.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Steinbach’s Annual Recovered Bike Sale Goes Online: April 16–29:
The City’s annual auction for recovered bicycles begins today, April 16, and will remain open through April 29. Bidding takes place entirely online, offering residents a chance to purchase bikes that were found and remained unclaimed after being turned over to the RCMP.
Source: City of Steinbach
Tennis Courts Officially Open for 2026 Season:
Spring has arrived at the local courts, as the City of Steinbach has officially unlocked the public tennis facilities for the year. Residents are encouraged to bring their own equipment and enjoy the courts, which are now fully accessible following the winter closure.
Source: City of Steinbach
Progress Made on D’Auteuil Park Playground Upgrades:
Upgrade work for the D’Auteuil Park playground is moving forward, with a new play structure officially on order and expected for installation this June. The final design was selected by 377 students from IDC School and Gab-Roy, who voted on their favorite layout after discussing the importance of accessibility and fair play.
Source: Niverville Citizen
Councillor Vi Enns-Preston Announces Resignation:
The RM of Lac du Bonnet officially announced the resignation of Councillor Vi Enns-Preston on April 9. Her departure will necessitate a by-election to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the term; further details on the nomination period and election date are expected in the coming weeks.
Source: RM of Lac du Bonnet
Cancellation of April 15 Planning Hearing:
Residents are advised that the Variation and Conditional Use Public Hearing originally scheduled for April 15 has been officially cancelled. The RM has not yet announced a rescheduled date for the property applications that were on the docket, though notices will be mailed to affected neighbours once finalized. Source: RM of Lac du Bonnet
Rural Animal Management Services (RAMS) Moves to Anola:
RAMS has officially moved its operations into the former Lucky Dollar grocery store on Highway 15 in Anola after being forced from its Oakbank home in 2024. Owner Meghan Main and local volunteers have completely renovated the space with durable PVC walls and heated floors to create a modern shelter, and the organization is now seeking 10 more foster families to help accommodate more rescues.
Source: Clipper Weekly
Public Notice: 2026 Financial Plan Hearing (May 5):
Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 5, at 6:00 PM at the RM of Reynolds Council Chambers to present the 2026 Financial Plan. Residents are encouraged to attend to review the proposed municipal budget, which outlines the tax levy and planned capital expenditures for the fiscal year.
Source: RM of Reynolds
Heritage Corporation Annual General Meeting: April 21:
The Lac du Bonnet Heritage Corporation will hold its 2026 Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, April 21, at 7:00 PM at the Town of Lac du Bonnet office. The meeting will review the past year’s preservation efforts and discuss upcoming projects for the community’s historical landmarks.
WRNW Waste Facility: Purchase of Used Scale Approved:
The Whitemouth-Reynolds North-Whiteshell (WRNW) Waste Management Facility has moved forward with the purchase of a used scale to improve operational efficiency. This upgrade will allow for more accurate weight tracking of commercial and residential waste, ensuring fair billing and better data management for the regional facility.
Source: RM of Reynolds
2026 Financial Plan and Tax Bylaw #1658 Draft:
The RM of Victoria Beach released the draft for its 2026 Financial Plan and Tax Bylaw #1658 on April 8. The document outlines a focus on shoreline protection and the maintenance of municipal water infrastructure, which are high-priority concerns for the beach community.
Source: RM of Victoria Beach
Summer Hours for Transfer Station #520:
The RM has confirmed that the 2026 summer operating hours for Transfer Station #520 will begin on May 4. This change includes extended evening and weekend access to accommodate the seasonal influx of cottagers and the start of spring yard cleanup activities.
Source: RM of Lac du Bonnet
Pinawa Financial Plan and Tax Levy (Bylaw 949-2026):
Pinawa Council held a public hearing on April 14 to present the 2026 Financial Plan. Following the hearing, the council moved into the second and third readings of Bylaw 949-2026, which officially sets the tax levy and operating budget for the Town of Pinawa for the current year.
Source: LGD of Pinawa
Running for Council: 2026 Election Information:
With the municipal election approaching, the RM has released a guide for residents interested in running for council. The notice outlines the registration process, eligibility requirements, and key deadlines for candidates looking to serve their community in the upcoming term.
Source: RM of Reynolds
Tender Opportunity: Grass Cutting and Beach Maintenance (Falcon West Estates):
The RM of Reynolds has issued a tender for grass cutting and beach maintenance at Falcon West Estates. The contract includes bi-weekly mowing of common areas and the beach, as well as regular debris removal to ensure the area is pristine for residents and summer visitors.
Source: RM of Reynolds
Tender Opportunity: Road Maintenance (Falcon West Estates):
Bids are now being accepted for the road maintenance contract at Falcon West Estates. This essential infrastructure role involves grading, dust control application, and minor culvert repairs to maintain the safety and integrity of the local residential road network throughout the year.
Source: RM of Reynolds
Battery Recycling Program and Safety Tips:
The RM of Alexander has refreshed its "Recycle Your Batteries" campaign, providing new safety tips for residents on how to properly store and dispose of household batteries. Dedicated recycling bins remain available at the municipal office and local transfer stations to prevent hazardous waste from entering the landfill.
Source: Municipality of Alexander
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